Author: Dobbin, Heather

MIDDLESEX HOSPITAL ALLIANCE
Cognition Wall & Brain Train Update

October 2023

Falls are the leading cause of injury in older adults and result in hospital stays 10 days longer than for any other cause (Government of Canada 2015).
Providing cognitive stimulation has been shown to decrease falls, particularly in the elderly with cognitive impairment. Therapies that enhance cognitive function can enhance gait and reduce falls risk.

Cognition Wall
The “Cog Wall” is a project developed by the Falls and Injury Prevention Committee. It was started 2 years before the pandemic which, slowed progress but we are happy to announce it was completed in August 2023. :
Use of the “Cog Wall” is hoped to provide cognitive stimulation for patients on One South, particularly the elderly or with impaired cognitive function
The Cog Wall is meant to be to be INTERACTIVE. Patients can use the wall with their family, volunteers or staff
Patients should NOT be left alone at the wall without supervision.
Activities on the Cog Wall have been approved by IPAC and Occupational Health and Safety

Mobile cart with a variety of activities that patients of all ages can use for cognitive stimulation
Variety of colouring activities—patients are provided with their own set of pencil crayons to minimize cross contamination between patients
Unit clerks help with maintaining supplies on the cart—please let them know when stock is down

Best Practice Champions
Are you interested in using Best Practice Guidelines to improve the patient care we provide ? WE WANT YOU !!
Champions provide feedback and suggestions to the Best Practice Guideline groups
Champions education is provided by RNAO and is FREE !
Successful completion of four 2 hour sessions—2 online and 2 interactive webinars and you’re a Champion. Speak with Krista or Maureen if you are interested.
RNAO Champions have access to educational workshops and
Conferences

Virtual Reality is HERE
Are you comfortable with technology ?
Do you like using VR ?
A virtual reality headset is available for use by patients
Patients must be supervised at all time when using VR
Several different platforms available e.g. taking a hot air balloon ride, swimming in the ocean, driving through the country or riding a roller coaster
VR equipment has been approved by IPAC and Occupational Health and Safety